Four thousand years old recipe: Boza

Boza is a drink widely consumed in Turkey, the Balkans, and Central Asia. Its history dates back to 2000 BC, and it is made from grains such as corn, wheat, or barley. Boza is obtained by stirring the grains in water and sometimes adding special molds. It has a soft and slightly acidic taste due to the maltose it contains. Boza is usually served cold and is especially popular in the summer months.

Boza is also known as a healthy drink. It contains a lot of vitamins and minerals and therefore helps regulate body systems. It also has the ability to strengthen the immune system. In Istanbul, boza became very popular during the Ottoman period and can still be found in various places in Istanbul today. Boza is considered one of Istanbul’s traditional drinks and is also of interest to tourists.

Vefa Boza is one of the oldest boza houses in Istanbul and was established in 1876. Boza house, which takes its name from the Vefa district in which it is located, is one of the places frequently visited by tourists in Istanbul. Besides boza, it also serves other Anatolian delicacies such as ayran, keşkül and sherbet.